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William Pusateri, owner of Priority 1 Paving in Dedham, was arraigned on 23 charges including larceny from disabled persons over 60 years old on Tuesday, Jan. 3, according to Middlesex Superior Court documents.
Pusateri, who pleaded not guilty to all charges, scammed customers from 2020 to May 2022 by taking deposits or payments in full for services that he never completed or only completed basic preparation for, according to the Statement of the Case.
In May 2021, Pusateri contacted a woman over 60 years old to finish work on her driveway. The woman paid the full cost, which Pusateri estimated at $6,000, up front. The woman sought a refund for nine months but one was never provided.
In one case in February 2022, Pusateri showed up unannounced at the home of a person with a disability and pitched multiple home improvement ideas to him, the Superior Court alleges. Pusateri had previously done work for the individual's parents, both of whom had recently died. The individual was convinced to provide $20,950 in cash and checks to Pusateri, who insisted it was not his business practice to provide contracts for service. No work was completed and no refund was given.
One complaint listed on the Better Business Bureau's site said they were told a "personal crisis" stopped the business from addressing the issues. Other excuses included a trip to Puerto Rico, inclement weather, and that his truck needed repairs, according to the Superior Court.
Pusateri's bail is set at $25,000, and if posted he must remain in lockdown at home, ensured through GPS tracking. He must also refrain from any type of contract work, have no contact with the victims, and turn over his passport.
Pusateri will next be in court on Jan. 18.
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